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How to find a lawyer

By Sheryl Smolkin

Sun., Nov. 11, 2012

For many people, getting affordable legal advice is a challenge. A referral and good reference from a friend, family member or business associate is always a great place to start. The rate can be anywhere from $50 to $1,000 per hour depending on the lawyer’s experience and the nature of the case.

In Toronto, Law Help operates self-help centres for low income and people representing themselves before Superior Court or Small Claims Court. Lawyers at Law Help Ontario centres provide free assistance for some civil matters, but not family or criminal law.

3. Legal Aid Ontario: Legal Aid www.legalaid.on.ca has a staff which helps those with low incomes appearing in court without a lawyer in a criminal or family matter. You qualify based on income. For example, if you are single and earn under about $10,800 a year before taxes or married with two children with a family income under $18, 685, you may qualify for a legal aid certificate. The agency also provides duty counsel in some courts and operates community and specialty clinics.

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